Salary: £59,000 per annum
Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced, passionate, and dedicated Nursery Manager to lead the daily operations of a high-quality early years setting. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring exceptional standards of care, education, safeguarding, and compliance while inspiring and supporting a team of early years professionals.
This is an exciting opportunity for a strong leader who is committed to creating a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where children can thrive and reach their full potential.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the overall management and day-to-day operation of the nursery.
Ensure the delivery of outstanding early years education and care in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
Maintain full compliance with all relevant legislation, safeguarding requirements, and regulatory standards.
Lead, motivate, coach, and develop the nursery team through effective supervision, performance management, and ongoing training.
Recruit, induct, and retain high-quality staff.
Build strong relationships with children, parents, carers, and external professionals.
Monitor occupancy levels and support initiatives to maintain sustainable growth.
Manage nursery budgets and resources effectively.
Ensure health and safety procedures are implemented and maintained at all times.
Prepare for inspections and implement continuous quality improvement plans.
Promote an inclusive culture where every child feels safe, valued, and supported.
Oversee safeguarding procedures and act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), where appropriate.
Foster a positive working environment that promotes teamwork, wellbeing, and professional development.
Essential Requirements
Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education or above (Level 5 or higher desirable).
Previous experience managing an early years setting.
Strong knowledge of the EYFS, safeguarding legislation, and Ofsted requirements.
Proven leadership and people management skills.
Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
Experience managing budgets and nursery occupancy.
Sound understanding of health and safety legislation.
Ability to build positive relationships with families, staff, and external agencies.
Desirable Requirements
Degree in Early Childhood Studies, Education, or a related field.
Experience achieving Good or Outstanding inspection outcomes.
Paediatric First Aid qualification.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training.
Personal Attributes
Passionate about delivering exceptional childcare and early education.
Inspirational and supportive leader.
Professional, approachable, and resilient.
Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
Committed to continuous improvement and staff development.
Child-centred with a genuine commitment to achieving the best outcomes for every child.
Benefits
Salary of £59,000 per annum.
Generous annual leave entitlement.
Ongoing professional development and training.
Career progression opportunities.
Pension scheme.
Employee wellbeing initiatives.
Supportive and collaborative working environment.
Recognition and reward programmes.
This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and the right to work in the UK.
